UK alternative pop artist Jay Saint James compels with new track “She’s The Pope,” a distinctly British character study co-produced with Martha McBain. Driven by acoustic strums, theatrical vocals, and soaring strings, the single affectionately honors resilience, loyalty, and working-class realism, inspired by a real person in the artist’s life. Jay Saint James also caught our ears last month with standout single “Lavender,” which impressed in its grooving pop sound and golden-age Hollywood inspirations.
A supremely melodic croon pairs with steady acoustic strums to start, those memorable vocals escalating into the riveting “master plan” ascent with pulsing rhythmic charm. “Don’t dare make a move if there’s a chance that you might choke,” they continue, before unfolding into a lovely dash of twinkling piano and solemn, string-laden subtleties. Resembling a tonal cross between Bowie-esque theatrics and modern-era Alex Turner, Jay Saint James’ vocal performance is tops throughout, particularly in the title-bearing hook.
“Don’t mess her around,” a soulful vocal rise appears as the two-minute mark approaches. A more illuminated, prominent soaring of strings dazzles in the final minute, as the vocals caution “don’t even waste your breath” — warning that failure may be imminent, yet that harsh reality has no bearing on the perseverant spirit of the titular figure, who maintains their humor, loyalty, and sense of self through ample personal tumult. “She’s The Pope” is another magnetic showcase in songwriting from Jay Saint James.
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We discovered this release via MusoSoup.
